White-shouldered Antbird
NameWhite-shouldered Antbird
Common NameWhite-shouldered Antbird
Scientific NameAkletos melanoceps
FamilyThamnophilidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)27.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, throat, and upper breast, contrasting with a rich rufous-brown back, wings, and belly. A hidden white patch is present on the scapulars (shoulders). It has a prominent pale blue orbital ring and pale blue legs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of accelerating, rising whistles and a rapid, ringing trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the western Amazon basin, including southeastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, northeastern Peru, and northwestern Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy black head and throat, Rich rufous-brown body, Hidden white shoulder patch (scapulars), Pale blue orbital ring, Pale blue legs
Description
This medium-sized antbird is characterized by its striking glossy black head and rich rufous-brown body. It typically forages in the dense understory of humid lowland forests, often following army ant swarms to catch flushed prey.
